Comprehensive Guide to Handling Home Break-Ins

Emergency/Evacuation Plan Ensure every member of your household knows what to do in case of an emergency. Practice evacuation routes and designate meeting points outside the home. Make sure every family member knows how to call 911, state your address clearly, and describe what is happening without hanging up until the dispatcher says it’s okay.Teach children a simple script for emergencies so they are not trying to improvise under stress. If you live the Frankfort Illinois area, residents can request crime prevention presentations and safety programs through the Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit, which offers community education and security-focused events. Proper Home Security Measures Invest in a reliable security system. Look for a professionally monitored system with sensors on key doors and windows, motion detection, and a loud audible alarm so intruders know immediately that police are on their way. An impressive 83% of burglars survey for a security system prior to attempting a break-in, and among them, 60% opt for an alternative target when encountering one installed. It is equally important to make sure all doors and windows have sturdy locks and consider installing locks on the inside of closets or rooms in case you need somewhere safe to hide until police arrive should a break-in occur.Exterior doors should have quality deadbolts, reinforced strike plates, and solid frames so they can withstand more than a light push. If a lock fails under a firm kick, it is a weak point. If you live in Tinley Park, residents are able to register their home security cameras with the village’s Connect Tinley Park and Residential Camera programs, so police know where cameras are located and can request footage to help solve crimes in the neighborhood. Secure Entry Points Avoid leaving spare keys outside the home, as intruders often know common hiding spots. If you need backup access, use a lockbox in a concealed location or trusted neighbor instead of hiding keys under mats, rocks, or planters, those are the first places intruders check. It is wise to keep valuables always locked up inside the home in a safe as well as maintaining proper lighting around the perimeter of your home to deter potential intruders. Motion-activated lights near doors, driveways, and yard access points are especially effective because they draw attention to movement and disrupt anyone trying to approach unnoticed. Discretion with Purchases Avoid advertising large purchases, such as expensive electronics or jewelry, as this can attract unwanted attention. Break down boxes from big-ticket items and place them inside trash or recycling bins so you are not broadcasting new electronics or upgrades to anyone driving by. Keep Car Keys Handy In the event of a break-in, having your car keys readily accessible can provide a means of escape or a way to activate a panic alarm. Use your vehicle alarm only after you have called 911 or are in a safer location, since the priority is getting help on the way and keeping distance between you and the intruder.